William Aislabie (governor) facts for kids

William Aislabie (born December 3, 1671 – died November 10, 1725) was an important British leader. He served as the governor of the Bombay Presidency, which was a part of India controlled by Britain a long time ago. This was during the time of the East India Company, a powerful trading company that managed many British territories in Asia.

William Aislabie's Life and Career

William Aislabie was the fifth son of George Aislabie. His brother was John Aislabie, who was also a well-known person.

Early Steps in Government

William Aislabie started his career as a Deputy Governor in 1704. This means he was like a second-in-command, helping the main governor. He took on this role after the previous Deputy Governor, John Burniston, passed away.

Becoming Governor of Bombay

In September 1708, William Aislabie became the main Governor of the Bombay Presidency. He was in charge of this important region for several years, leaving his position on October 11, 1715.

A Role in Parliament

After his time as Governor, William Aislabie also served as a Member of Parliament for a place called Ripon. This meant he was elected to help make laws and represent the people in the British government. He held this role from late 1719 until 1722.

A Home That Was Not To Be

Towards the end of his life, William's brother, John Aislabie, bought a large piece of land called the Waverley Abbey estate. John planned to build a house there for William. Sadly, William Aislabie died around the time the house was finished. Because of this, the Waverley estate was later sold.

William Aislabie's Family

William Aislabie married a daughter of John Burniston. They had a son, also named William, who got married in 1728 to Elizabeth Scattergood. Elizabeth was the daughter of a merchant named John Scattergood. Their son, born in 1729, was named John Aislabie, and he later became an army officer.